Sore balls of feet due to ballroom dancing?

Question

I just started training today (for only two hours) to become a ballroom dance teacher. Before today I had never done any type of ballroom dancing before. I bought new strappy heels today that seem to be just a little tight, but the woman at the store told me they looked perfect and should stretch out a little bit.

My problem is the balls of my feet are incredibly sore. I'm not used to having all of my weight on the balls of my feet and it's killing me.

I have to go back tomorrow and I can barely walk right now. Is there anything I can do to relieve some of the pain, at least until I get used to it, so I can go back tomorrow? I really appreciate it, thanks.

Answer 1

That's perfectly normal, especially if you were working on your Latin or Rhythm dancing today. Even in heels, Standard/Smooth puts less weight on the balls of your feet You can do the ice and ibuprofen thing, but it won't be of that much help. It's just something you'll accomodate to.

I take it you're probably starting at one of the franchise studios (AM or FADS).  They'll be somewhat understanding, though sympathy only goes so far.

Also, make sure you aren't forward-weighted in your Standard/Smooth. It's a common enough error in beginners. And try (except in tango) never to let your feet come completely off the floor. You'll be taught that soon enough, but proper technique is easier on the feet.

Answer 2

To give relief now, have a pediluvy with lukewarm water and sodium bicarbonate (if you have some essential oil like peppermint or lavender you can add a few drops to the water). Let your feet stay there for 15 minutes at least. Then rinse them with water  and dry with a soft towel. Massage your feet with a moisturiser.

You need to get less pressure on the balls of the feet: as soon as possible, buy a pair of silicon cushions for the balls of the feet like Doctor Sholl's Party Feet to use while wearing your shoes and an icing spray or a cooling lotion to use as soon as you get pain.

You probably need a spray for your shoes to get sooner the shape of your feet. Are they dancing shoes or normal street shoes? Dancing shoes are usually softer than street ones and they should perfectly fit since the first time you wear them.

If you are not used to high heels, consider to try with dancing sneakers or with dancing shoes called "teaching shoes" and gradually move to higher heels. Alternating high and low heels during your training (and during the rest of the day) also prevents to get some injuries like Achilles' tendonitis.

Relax your toes while dancing so that your weight is distributed on a larger area and the balls of the feet get less pressure.

Try some exercises to strenghten your feet, like these:

http://www.close-embrace.com/footexercis...

http://www.dance.net/topic/2211620/1/Poi...

http://www.dancespirit.com/articles/35

http://www.barfusspark.info/en/gymn.htm

Answer 3

Did you buy dance shoes, or just regular heeled sandals?  If you didn't buy ballroom dance shoes I would suggest to get some.  You can also get comfort insoles made specially for high heeled shoes to cushion the balls of your feet.

Definitely massage, soak and then if they feel swollen ice at night!

Answer 4

i get that fromm ballet at tmes

you need to massae your feet. put a teniis ball on the ground and roll your feet under them.

also soak your feet in salty water.

Answer 5

i have dance 5 days a week so i tend to be on the balls of my feet a lot there are some things to help

1)After classes take a warm shower or bath

2)Try walking around the house on the balls of your feet to get used to it

3)Massage the balls of your feet(maybe even get a pedicure!)

4)Or try staying off your feet and resting them

I hope one of these will work for you:)

good luck!